Student Lincoln Roper has a strong vision of what he wants to achieve in his role as Youth Ambassador at this year’s Grow Ōtautahi Christchurch Garden Festival, presented by Lincoln University on March 12-14 in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
"I want to utilise the vast reach that the Grow festival has to inspire young people to become interested in their food, gain an understanding and appreciation for the environment and ultimately foster a city which celebrates its title of the garden city."
He completed a Bachelor of Agribusiness and Food Marketing degree at Lincoln University last year and plans to return in 2021 to begin postgraduate study for a Master of Business (Global Management and Marketing).
Lincoln University has agreed to partner Grow Ōtautahi for the next three years, helping to build and develop the Festival into a major attraction for the Garden City.
Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bruce McKenzie said Lincoln University welcomed the opportunity to support Grow, and he predicted it would become a landmark event for the people of Christchurch and the whole country.
“Grow Ōtautahi offers direct synergies with Lincoln’s land-based teaching and research, and with our deep connection with the thriving food and fibre sectors. We grow opportunities and futures for students and our research and collaboration helps grow New Zealand’s economy.”
Festival Director, Sandi McRae, said Lincoln University would help bring the Festival alive.
“We’re so proud to have Lincoln University behind our 2021 event, bringing the best of science and education to Grow Ōtautahi, along with some fun and interesting elements that will appeal to everyone.”
“Visitors will be able to sample locally sourced food prepared by top chefs, explore cutting edge landscape design displays, participate in workshops and masterclasses, learn about food science, experience gardening through the eyes of local school children and generally revel in all that’s new, sustainable, innovative and fun in gardening and food sourcing,” .
Lincoln University will have a strong presence at the festival with workshops on propagation, landscaping and composting as well as the Children’s University scavenger hunt and a bee motel display.